5 Unsung heroes of the season | Premier League 2019-20

#2. Fernandinho

Fernandinho's adaptability and versatility helped Pep Guardiola cope without Aymeric Laporte in defense

Manchester City’s squad is filled with some of the world’s most decorated and illustrious players, with the likes of Sergio Aguero, Kevin De Bruyne and David Silva at the fore-front. A younger crop of players, equally talented, include Leroy Sane and Gabriel Jesus who are destined to be superstars of world football in the future.

However, it is hard to believe that a certain Brazilian midfielder, now closing in on 35, remains City’s most important player. Fernandinho is, without a shadow of a doubt, Pep Guardiola’s most reliable player on the pitch, such is his versatility, determination and dynamism. The former Shakhtar Donetsk man recently signed a one-year contract extension after what has been another excellent season for him.

Fernandinho, who is typically the focal point in the middle of the park, has slotted in at centre-back this season due to the injury problems inflicted upon City. Guardiola’s most trusted defender Aymeric Laporte suffered a long-term knee injury way back in August whilst John Stones’ worrying form, coupled with Nicolas Otamendi’s rash decision-making, forced the Spaniard to deploy the defensive midfielder at the heart of the City defence.

There was no doubt among the City faithful that Fernandinho would not disappoint in his new role, but the fact that he will look right at home straight-from-the-off surprised many. The three-time Premier League winner has been stalwart in Pep’s defense and perhaps their only saving grace this season.

There has been a significant dearth of clean-sheets at the Etihad this season but Laporte’s return and Fernandinho’s impeccable displays could power City to a strong finish in the Premier League.